BALTIMORE — Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed early Tuesday after a container ship rammed into it, resulting in intense search and rescue efforts as well as a State of Emergency to be declared.
The vessel appears to have hit one of the supports of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing the roadway to break apart in several places and plunge into the water, according to a video posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. This also resulted in major traffic delays for many commuters as the bridge links communities together.
And this will continue to impact many until it is fixed. Here's some background on the major bridge, according to Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA):
The bridge opened in March 1977 and is named for the author of the Star Spangled Banner, Francis Scott Key. It is the outermost of three toll crossings of Baltimore's Harbor. When the bridge was completed, it became the final links in Interstate 695 (the Baltimore Beltway.) The 1.6 mile Key Bridge crosses over the Patapsco River.
The bridge cost an estimated $110 million, and was the best alternative for a tunnel at the time because it allowed for more traffic lanes and carried lower operating and maintenance costs. The bridge also allowed for a route across the Baltimore Harbor for vehicles transporting hazardous material, as these materials are prohibited from the Baltimore Harbor and Fort McHenry tunnels.
Construction began for the bridge in 1972 and was opened to the public on March 23, 1977 -- marking 47 years it has been in service this year.
Do you have a news tip on this story or any other story? We want to hear from you. Tell us about it by emailing newstips@wusa9.com.
MORE WAYS TO GET WUSA9
DOWNLOAD THE WUSA9 APP
Apple App Store: WUSA9 News on Apple
Google Play Store: WUSA9 News on Android
HOW TO ADD THE FREE WUSA9+ APP TO YOUR STREAMING DEVICE
ROKU: add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching for WUSA9.
For both Apple TV and Fire TV, search for "WUSA9" to find the free app to add to your account. Another option for Fire TV is to have the app delivered directly to your Fire TV through Amazon.
SIGN UP TO RECEIVE WUSA9 NEWSLETTER
Subscribe to our daily WUSA9 Newsletter for top stories from WUSA9 curated daily just for you. Get content and information right now for can’t-miss stories, Commanders content, weather, and more delivered right to your inbox.